Hastings Prince Edward Public Health is emphasizing the importance of getting the influenza immunization, particularly during a pandemic.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Piotr Oglaza says the flu season is coming up and one of the important ways to protect against it is to get the vaccine. Oglaza tells Quinte News some people get immunized earlier than others because the first allotment of vaccine to public health will go to people in Long Term Care and retirement homes.
“So these individuals will probably get the vaccine first. That’s also for a reason and the rationale is they are potentially the most vulnerable and susceptible to the complications of the flu.”
He emphasized everyone should get immunized.
“The time to get immunized is in the fall, so late October and November would be a good time to get that immunization.”
Oglaza added, “Vaccine is also available through the pharmacies. That’s also another avenue where individuals can get immunized. Their distribution system is independent from what public health receives from the government pharmacy and distributes to Long Term Care community clinics … the flu season usually peaks in late December.”
